Crew Member Reveals Emotional Distress Following ‘Tsunami of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a online statement, referring to a check-in call from a mission companion in the days following the landing.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has focused her career on women's health research and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her background – was buried under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her pioneering work protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after an attack during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose support pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She concluded that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the experience, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The fully automated spacecraft launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the edge of space.

The team of pioneers also featured leaders in multiple disciplines.

The company behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.